DOLE SARGEN Field Office SEADO Conrado P. Artatez said these workers formally filed their complaint under SENA and it was docketed for underpayment of wages and other core labor standards. Four (4) conciliation-conferences were conducted wherein an agreement amenable to both parties was reached.

Payment was released to 52 complainants last July 20, 2011.So far; this is the highest amount of settlement under SENA in this Region.

The Department of Labor and Employment headed by Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz established last year through D.O. 107-10 Single Entry Approach Desks (SEADs) nationwide to serve as entry points in speeding up the resolution of all cases affecting workers and employers. This program is also in consonance with the goal of President Benigno S. Aquino III’s 22-point labor and employment agenda. (From the report of Ms. Alma Borela)